し

The particle し is used to list multiple reasons, qualities, or facts, often with the nuance of "and," "and what's more," or "besides." It implies that the listed items are not exhaustive – there may be additional reasons or qualities beyond what is stated.

Listing multiple reasons

し is used to give two or more reasons that support a conclusion or opinion. The conclusion often comes at the end of the sentence.

The conclusion can also come first:

Giving a single reason (with implied extras)

し can also be used with just one reason, implying that there are other unstated reasons as well. This adds a softer, less direct tone compared to から or ので.

Connecting form

し attaches to the plain form of verbs, adjectives, and nouns:

• Verb: たべる食べる
  • し / たべた食べた
    • し
• い-adjective: やすい安い
  • し / やすかった安かった
    • し
• な-adjective: 静かだ
  • し / 静かだった
    • し
• Noun: 学生だ
  • し / 学生だった
    • し

In polite speech, し can also follow the ～ます form or ～です:

Nuance

Unlike と or て for simple listing, し carries the implication that the speaker is building a case – piling up reasons or positive/negative points. It often conveys a subjective evaluation or personal justification.